Indiana Map By Counties

Indiana sees continued strong population growth in 2019 (MayJun 2020)

Discover the Best of Indiana’s Counties

Indiana is a diverse and exciting state that offers an array of attractions and experiences for visitors. From big cities to small towns, from beaches to mountains, and from natural wonders to historic landmarks, Indiana has something for everyone. If you’re planning a trip to Indiana, be sure to explore the state’s counties, each with its unique treasures and hidden gems.

The Top Attractions in Indiana

If you’re looking for the best of Indiana’s attractions, start with these must-see destinations:

The Indiana Dunes National Park
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
The Notre Dame University Campus
The Indiana State Museum

These iconic destinations offer a glimpse into Indiana’s history, culture, and natural beauty. But there’s much more to explore beyond these popular attractions. Let’s dive deeper into Indiana’s hidden gems and top experiences by county.

Uncovering Indiana’s Hidden Gems

Allen County

Located in northeast Indiana, Allen County is home to the charming city of Fort Wayne. This bustling city is known for its rich history, thriving arts scene, and family-friendly attractions. Highlights include the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, and the Botanical Conservatory. If you’re looking for outdoor adventures, head to the Rivergreenway, a scenic trail that winds through the city and connects to nearby parks and attractions.

Monroe County

Home to Indiana University and the vibrant city of Bloomington, Monroe County is a hub of culture, arts, and entertainment. Explore the campus of Indiana University, visit the iconic Sample Gates, or catch a show at the Indiana University Auditorium. Beyond the university, Bloomington offers a thriving food scene, craft breweries, and outdoor adventures, including hiking in the Hoosier National Forest and kayaking on Lake Monroe.

Hamilton County

Located just north of Indianapolis, Hamilton County offers a mix of urban and rural attractions. Visit Conner Prairie, an interactive living history museum, or explore the Carmel Arts & Design District, home to galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. Outdoor enthusiasts will love Hamilton County’s parks and trails, including the Monon Trail, a 26-mile trail that connects Carmel to Indianapolis.

Tippecanoe County

Home to Purdue University and the city of Lafayette, Tippecanoe County offers an array of cultural and outdoor experiences. Visit the Purdue University campus, check out the exhibits at the Haan Mansion Museum of Indiana Art, or explore the Tippecanoe Battlefield Museum and Park. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the Wabash Heritage Trail, a scenic trail that winds along the Wabash River and through Lafayette and West Lafayette.

Food Scene and Budget-Friendly Tips

Indiana’s Food Scene

Indiana’s food scene is diverse and delicious, offering everything from farm-to-table cuisine to classic comfort food. For a taste of Indiana’s culinary heritage, try the famous pork tenderloin sandwich or a slice of sugar cream pie. Indianapolis offers a mix of upscale dining and casual eateries, while small towns like Nashville and Shipshewana offer unique dining experiences and local specialties.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling on a budget? Indiana offers plenty of affordable attractions and experiences. Check out free attractions like the Indiana State Capitol Building or the Indiana State Museum, or explore Indiana’s state parks and nature preserves, many of which offer free admission. Look for budget-friendly accommodations like campgrounds, hostels, or budget hotels, and take advantage of happy hour specials or restaurant deals to save on food and drinks.

Outdoor Adventures and Natural Wonders

Indiana’s Outdoor Adventures

Indiana’s natural beauty is best experienced through outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, and kayaking. Explore Indiana’s state parks and nature preserves, including Brown County State Park, Turkey Run State Park, and Indiana Dunes State Park. The state’s rivers and lakes offer opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming, while the Indiana Dunes National Park is a paradise for beach lovers.

Indiana’s Natural Wonders

Indiana is home to many natural wonders, including the Indiana Sand Dunes, the Blue River, and the Mounds State Park. Explore the caves and canyons of the Indiana Caverns, or admire the stunning waterfalls of Clifty Falls State Park. For a unique natural wonder, head to the world’s largest sinkhole at the Bedford limestone quarry.

Family-Friendly Activities and Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Indiana’s Family-Friendly Activities

Indiana offers plenty of family-friendly activities, from theme parks to museums and zoos. Check out the Indianapolis Zoo, the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, or the Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari theme park. For a unique family experience, visit the Amish communities of northern Indiana and explore their unique culture and traditions.

Indiana’s Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, Indiana has plenty to offer. Visit the historic town of New Harmony, a utopian community founded in 1814, or explore the quirky attractions of Santa Claus, Indiana, including the Santa Claus Museum and Village and the Holiday World amusement park. For a unique cultural experience, head to the Indianapolis Museum of Art and its stunning gardens and outdoor sculptures.

Vibrant Nightlife, Local Markets, and Cultural Immersion

Indiana’s Vibrant Nightlife

Indiana offers plenty of nightlife options, from live music venues to craft breweries and cocktail bars. Check out the Fountain Square neighborhood in Indianapolis, home to trendy bars and restaurants, or explore the nightlife scene in Bloomington or Lafayette. For a unique experience, head to the Bluebird Nightclub in Bloomington, a legendary music venue that has hosted acts like John Mellencamp and Dave Matthews Band.

Indiana’s Local Markets

Indiana is home to many local markets and farmers’ markets, offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and unique souvenirs. Check out the City Market in Indianapolis, the Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market, or the Shipshewana Flea Market, one of the largest flea markets in the Midwest.

Indiana’s Cultural Immersion

Indiana offers many opportunities for cultural immersion, from visiting Amish communities to exploring the state’s art and music scene. Check out the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art in Indianapolis, or catch a show at the iconic Indiana Theatre in Terre Haute. For a unique cultural experience, head to the annual Indiana State Fair, a celebration of Indiana’s agriculture, food, and culture.

Architectural Marvels, Historical Sites, and Biking Routes

Indiana’s Architectural Marvels

Indiana is home to many architectural marvels, including the iconic Indiana State Capitol Building, the Indianapolis Artsgarden, and the West Baden Springs Hotel, a stunning historic hotel that has been called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” Explore the picturesque covered bridges of Parke County, or admire the stunning architecture of the University of Notre Dame.

Indiana’s Historical Sites

Indiana offers many opportunities to explore its rich history, from the Native American mounds of Angel Mounds State Historic Site to the historic mansions of the West Central Neighborhood in Fort Wayne. Visit the Levi Coffin House in Fountain City, a historic home that was a stop on the Underground Railroad, or explore the Indiana Historical Society in Indianapolis.

Indiana’s Biking Routes

Indiana offers many scenic biking routes, from urban trails to rural backroads. Explore the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, an 8-mile bike and pedestrian path that connects the city’s cultural districts, or head to the Cardinal Greenway, a 62-mile rail-trail that winds through eastern Indiana. For a unique biking experience, head to the Indiana Dunes National Park and explore the park’s 15 miles of bike trails.

Wellness Retreats and Adventure Sports

Indiana’s Wellness Retreats

Indiana offers many opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation, from spa retreats to yoga classes and meditation workshops. Visit the New Harmony Inn Resort and Conference Center, a tranquil retreat in the historic town of New Harmony, or explore the wellness offerings at the Art of Living Retreat Center in Boone County.

Indiana’s Adventure Sports

Indiana offers plenty of opportunities for adventure sports, from rock climbing to ziplining and whitewater rafting. Head to the Whitewater Canal State Historic Site in Metamora for a scenic canal boat ride, or explore the treetops at the Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course in Indianapolis. For a unique adventure, try sandboarding at the Indiana Dunes National Park.